The Supplemental Oxygen Supply Hood: for dogs that fly

We know our canine companions like to walk and run and go for a ride in the car but how many of us would consider taking to the skies with our dog? If you’re a dog owner who likes to get airborne with your furry friend you might find that the Supplemental Oxygen Supply Hood is a handy piece of equipment to have on board. It’s an air system for dogs traveling at altitudes of 8,000 feet and above, and it’s currently on display at Oshkosh 2010.

Kent and Lori Carter of 4 Paws Aviation wanted to be able to travel with their dogs above 8,000 feet. Their main concern was that their dogs would suffer from hypoxia – a condition that arises when the body is deprived of oxygen. After consultation with their veterinarian, the Carters developed the oxygen hood.

The system can be used with a stand-alone oxygen bottle or with the aircraft’s oxygen supply. It fits around the neck and head of the animal, is attached by Velcro and has a drawstring at the nose area to attach it to the dog’s harness or collar ensuring it can’t be removed. There are two holes at the top for the oxygen cannula and once the hood is secured on the dog, the front of the hood is zipped up. The dog receives air from the top of the hood and air breathed out is extracted through a one-way valve at the front of the hood.